The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) will host its 11th annual Shavathon on 1 March at various shopping centres around the country.
People can shave or spray their hair, or donate their ponytails, at these venues for R50 (adults) or R25 (children under 12).
Doing this will show support for cancer survivors and proceeds will help fund Cansa care and support programmes.
Cansa is a non-profit organisation with the purpose to “lead the fight against cancer in South Africa”.
Its mission is “to be the preferred non-profit organisation that enables research, educates the public and provides support to all people affected by cancer.”
Cansa CEO Sue Janse van Rensburg said, “People don’t realise just how valuable a contribution their donation made at each Cansa Shavathon is. It mainly helps to support cancer patients who need it the most.”
According to Cansa the spray used is made of vegetable oil, is safe, lasts for a day and washes out easily.
To donate a ponytail your hair must be at least 22cm in length and it must be clean and dry. Ponytails will be used to make wigs that will be provided for free to cancer patients. A person may also buy a hair wrap for R50.
The Cansa website has a list of the Shavathon venues. If someone cannot reach a Shavathon venue but wishes to contribute, he or she can choose to donate money via the ‘Bail Out’ option on the website.
Cansa Shavathon will also be at various workplaces between 24 and 28 February. World Cancer day was on 4 February.
Details: Cansa Joburg head office 011 616 7662.
